Sunday, May 16, 2010

Risk

There are many different types and levels of risk. Some of us are very comfortable taking risks and may even find it exciting or motivating. Most of us, however, are a little less comfortable with risk. The higher the level of risk the less comfortable most of us become.

It's virtually impossible to go through life avoiding risk altogether; it would also probably make for a pretty boring existence. I wonder though, what most of us would do if given a choice between a somewhat risky option or an option with no risk involved. Many of us would choose the no-risk selection in order to avoid the discomfort, anxiety, and uncertainty associated with risk. Risk is uncomfortable. Most of us tend to avoid feeling uncomfortable whenever possible.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to be comfortable. The problem occurs when we are so "addicted" to comfort that we refuse to follow any path or pursue any change that would take us out of our comfort zone. When we make choices in life based solely upon what's comfortable for us we miss out on opportunities for growth and are prevented from reaching our full potential.

The majority of us would agree that life is most meaningful when we are growing as individuals. If we cling to comfort at all costs we become stagnant. It's important to realize that while risk creates discomfort it's also essential for growth. No one enjoys feeling uncomfortable but we can tolerate it. If we can challenge ourselves to take risks in spite of the unpleasant emotions evoked we will find that the potential gains are well worth it. Even when we take a risk that doesn't pan out well we may learn from these situations and apply the information to our future endeavors.

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About Me

I'm a Licensed Clinicial Social Worker (i.e., a "sit on my couch and tell me your problems" therapist). I'm also a woman just like any other woman, with the same wants, needs, problems, thoughts, feelings, etc. Being a therapist gives me a unique perspective though -- I'm more self-aware than your average person and I understand why I do almost everything I do. (If I don't know why I usually set off on yet another journey to better understand myself). The title of my blog is "This is Me" but my hope is that it's not just about me -- it's about you too. I hope that you will find a little of yourself in my words and that in seeking to better understand myself others will have the opportunity to better understand themselves as well.